Best Things to Do in the Philippines:
Top 10 Day Trip Attractions
- Written by Roi Alfassi
- Updated September 2025
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The Philippines is a dream for travelers — over 7,000 islands surrounded by turquoise waters, white-sand beaches, and warm smiles. While many visitors focus on popular destinations like Palawan or Cebu, the Philippines offers unforgettable day trips that showcase its heart and soul. From tropical islands to volcano treks, these ten-day trips with things to do in philippines capture the true spirit.
1. Tagaytay from Manila – The Volcano View Escape
Just a couple of hours south of Manila, Tagaytay offers cool mountain air, panoramic lake views, and a relaxing break from the city chaos. The highlight here is the Taal Volcano, one of the world’s smallest yet most active volcanoes, rising from the middle of a lake.
Take a scenic walk or boat ride to the volcano’s crater, enjoy a local lunch overlooking the lake, and try the famous bulalo (beef marrow soup) — a Tagaytay specialty. The entire area feels like a natural balcony overlooking paradise.
Highlights: Taal Volcano, Taal Lake, local food, and scenic viewpoints.
Who it’s for: Families, couples, and nature lovers.
How to get there: 2-hour drive from Manila or guided tour.
Approx. cost: ₱1,500–₱3,000 ($25–$50).
Tip: Visit early morning for clear skies and fewer tourists.
2. Pagsanjan Falls from Manila – A Canoe Adventure Through Nature
If you love waterfalls and a bit of thrill, a day trip to Pagsanjan Falls in Laguna is unforgettable. You’ll journey upriver in a dugout canoe guided by skilled boatmen, navigating rapids and lush jungle scenery.
Once you reach the falls, take a bamboo raft ride right under the roaring cascade for an exhilarating experience. It’s both peaceful and adrenaline-pumping — a perfect taste of the Philippines’ wild beauty.
Highlights: Canoe ride through the gorge, Pagsanjan Falls, bamboo raft adventure.
Who it’s for: Adventure seekers and photographers.
How to get there: 2.5-hour drive from Manila or via organized tours.
Approx. cost: ₱2,500–₱4,000 ($42–$68).
Tip: Bring a waterproof bag for your phone and camera.
3. Taal Heritage Town from Manila – Colonial Charm and Local Culture
Located near Tagaytay, the Taal Heritage Town is a well-preserved colonial village filled with ancestral homes, cobblestone streets, and a timeless vibe. It feels like walking through 19th-century Philippines.
Explore the Taal Basilica — the largest church in Asia — visit heritage mansions, and shop for hand-embroidered barong shirts and knives crafted by local artisans. End your visit with a cup of native coffee and suman (sticky rice cake) in one of the old cafés.
Highlights: Taal Basilica, heritage homes, local crafts, and cafés.
Who it’s for: History lovers and culture enthusiasts.
How to get there: 3-hour drive from Manila.
Approx. cost: ₱1,000–₱2,000 ($17–$35).
Tip: Visit on weekends when more heritage houses are open to the public.
4. Kawasan Falls from Cebu – Turquoise Paradise
Arguably one of the most famous waterfalls in the Philippines, Kawasan Falls is a multi-tiered cascade with crystal-clear turquoise pools — a natural swimming paradise.
You can simply swim and relax, or take it up a notch with the canyoneering adventure that involves cliff-jumping, sliding down rocks, and floating through jungle streams. It’s thrilling, refreshing, and utterly Instagram-worthy.
Highlights: Canyoneering, swimming, and cliff jumping.
Who it’s for: Adventure junkies and groups of friends.
How to get there: 3-hour drive from Cebu City.
Approx. cost: ₱1,500–₱3,000 ($25–$50).
Tip: Book a local guide — it’s safer and includes equipment and transfers.
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5. Bohol from Cebu – Chocolate Hills and Tarsiers
Bohol offers one of the most diverse day trips in the Philippines, combining unique landscapes and wildlife. The famous Chocolate Hills are over 1,200 grass-covered mounds that turn brown in the dry season, creating a surreal sight.
Visit the Tarsier Sanctuary to see the world’s smallest primates, cruise down the Loboc River on a floating restaurant, and stop by centuries-old churches. It’s a full day of wonder and discovery.
Highlights: Chocolate Hills, Tarsier Sanctuary, Loboc River cruise.
Who it’s for: Families and first-time travelers.
How to get there: 2-hour ferry from Cebu to Tagbilaran, then local transport.
Approx. cost: ₱2,000–₱3,500 ($34–$60).
Tip: Bring binoculars for spotting tarsiers without disturbing them.
6. El Nido Island | Hopping | Lagoons and Hidden Beaches
El Nido is pure paradise. Its limestone cliffs and blue lagoons have become iconic for a reason. Even if you’re staying in Palawan, a day of island-hopping is a must.
Choose one of the popular tours (A, B, C, or D) — each covers a mix of lagoons, secret beaches, and snorkeling spots. Lunch is often grilled fish served right on the sand — island life at its best.
Highlights: Big Lagoon, Secret Beach, snorkeling, and island picnics.
Who it’s for: Beach lovers and photographers.
How to get there: Flights to El Nido or ferry from Coron; tours start from town.
Approx. cost: ₱1,500–₱2,500 ($25–$42).
Tip: Bring reef-safe sunscreen — protect the coral while you explore.
7. Mount Pinatubo from Manila – Trek to a Volcano Crater
For those craving adventure and landscapes out of a movie, Mount Pinatubo delivers. After its massive 1991 eruption, the volcano left behind a stunning turquoise crater lake.
Take a 4×4 jeep ride across volcanic plains, then hike for about 2 hours to reach the crater. The surreal scenery and sense of isolation make it one of the most rewarding day trips from Manila.
Highlights: Crater lake, 4×4 off-road ride, mountain hiking.
Who it’s for: Adventure travelers and photographers.
How to get there: 3-hour drive to Capas, Tarlac, then guided trek.
Approx. cost: ₱3,000–₱5,000 ($50–$85).
Tip: Wear a hat and sunscreen — the trail has little shade.
8. Hundred Islands from Pangasinan – Island-Hopping Heaven
Located in northern Luzon, the Hundred Islands National Park features over 120 small islands with pristine beaches, caves, and snorkeling spots. You can swim, kayak, zipline, or simply relax under the sun.
The park is well-organized and offers easy day tours that include several islands with different attractions — from limestone cliffs to viewing decks.
Highlights: Island-hopping, snorkeling, and kayaking.
Who it’s for: Families and adventure groups.
How to get there: 5-hour drive from Manila to Alaminos City.
Approx. cost: ₱1,800–₱3,000 ($30–$50).
Tip: Visit Quezon Island — it’s the most scenic and has great facilities.
9. Coron’s Twin Lagoons – A Natural Wonder
Coron is famous for its clear waters and dramatic limestone landscapes. A day tour to the Twin Lagoons lets you swim in both fresh and saltwater surrounded by cliffs that look like they’ve been carved by time.
You can also combine it with visits to Kayangan Lake and snorkeling spots over WWII shipwrecks. The contrast between deep blue water and limestone cliffs makes every photo breathtaking.
Highlights: Twin Lagoons, Kayangan Lake, snorkeling, and limestone cliffs.
Who it’s for: Snorkelers and adventure travelers.
How to get there: Start from Coron Town on an organized island tour.
Approx. cost: ₱2,000–₱3,000 ($34–$50).
Tip: Bring water shoes — sharp rocks can hide beneath the water.
10. Bantayan Island from Cebu – Laid-Back Island Bliss
For those who prefer calm beaches to crowds, Bantayan Island is paradise found. With powdery white sand, turquoise shallows, and friendly locals, it’s the perfect day to unwind and forget the world.
Rent a motorbike, explore secluded coves, and stop at local cafés for fresh seafood. It’s a slower pace of life — and that’s exactly what makes it special.
Highlights: Virgin Island, Kota Beach, local markets, and seafood dining.
Who it’s for: Couples, honeymooners, and those seeking peace.
How to get there: 3-hour drive from Cebu to Hagnaya Port, 1-hour ferry to Bantayan.
Approx. cost: ₱2,000–₱3,500 ($34–$60).
Tip: Stay until sunset — Bantayan’s golden skies are unforgettable.